Yes, the street view mode has been very useful. I have searched a route and read the directions but actually following them on street view has been extremely helpful as prep for actually working the route.

It gives you a route and I just click on the white arrows in the road. Then I look at the various landmarks so when I actually make the trip it's familiar. My sister recently moved to a different part of London and I used this technique before I went. I input the post code of the tube station and her postcode. Read the route and then street viewed it. When I actually came to walk to her house from the station it was a doddle!

whizz this is fab. I know it might not be a new idea but I love this!! it should be a app or website in itself. to be able to do this could really help me and im sure many others. would be good If they could link it for you. so perhaps its spoek it alongside showing you where to go on the street view.

I like the street view of Google maps as it gives you a better idea of directions you may need as it is more real than just lots of roads on a map, it is also fun to be nosy and see what's around the area (but the nosiness will help remember it too when walking it!)

oooh I loike to do this too.especially when I hear of a place I look up where it is.for instance on property shows. they will give a house or destination and ill google it to see what its actually like and what they are showing on our screens.

i enjoy google maps as i like to back to where i used to live and see what it all looks like now and to travel to place sic ant get to yet like paris and new york! hope the camera never catches me at my door though - it'll crack!

I've never done this for 'hedge inspiration' myself, but good luck to you. I have looked at the town my great aunt lives in in Australia, and I've seen her house. I mentioned it to her on the phone, wondering if I would unnerve her (not my intention) but she thought it was fascinating.